A need in the kiwifruit industry for skilled workers is set to be met by a $150,000 funding injection from the government.

New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc president Neil Trebilco says the funding will subsidise training provided by Fruition Horticulture for new employees.

Fruition Horticulture is experienced in delivering training to seasonal workers from the Pacific and people currently employed in the horticulture industry throughout New Zealand.

In announcing the funding, Rotorua MP Todd McClay says the Industry Training Fund will boost performance and participation in industry training, encourage competition and innovation and simplify the industry training system.

'These past few years have been trying times for kiwifruit growers in Te Puke and the wider Bay of Plenty District and the industry is continuing to recover through the resilience of local growers.

'NZKGI was selected following a competitive tender process and has shown a commitment to training that will benefit the trainees, their organisations, and the country as a whole.”

Todd says it is another positive step forward for the community. 'The Government has a strong interest in the recovery of the kiwifruit industry and I remain committed to supporting local growers.”

Fruition Horticulture academic manager Wendy Bradley says a number of postharvest operators have indicated a willingness to have their staff take part in the training.

'There is quite a shortage of skilled staff within the industry now and the courses we run are designed to break down the barriers to further training.

'While the training is intended to assist employees in gaining a National Certificate in Horticulture Level 1, the aim is to provide essential skills and encourage people to pursue further training through the Primary ITO or polytechnic.”

The courses will come at some cost to the employer but the funding will aid companies in enrolling more employees than they could have otherwise, says Wendy.